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Statement by Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria, Adam Abdelmoula, on the United Nations Scale-Up of Humanitarian Response in As-Sweida Amid Escalating Needs (21 August 2025)

UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

Damascus, 21 August 2025 -- The United Nations and humanitarian partners are mobilizing resources and intensifying efforts to address the growing humanitarian needs in As-Sweida and surrounding areas hosting displaced populations, following weeks of clashes that have severely impacted civilians and disrupted essential services.

During a visit to As-Sweida on 20 August, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Syria, Adam Abdelmoula, expressed appreciation to the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic for its support and facilitation of the mission. This cooperation enabled the UN delegation to assess the humanitarian situation on the ground and engage directly with affected communities, local officials, and civil society organizations.

Over 190,000 people have been displaced, the majority within As-Sweida Governorate. Many are sheltering in schools, raising urgent concerns as the academic year approaches. Dignified and safe solutions must be found for displaced families to ensure children's uninterrupted access to education.

Health services are under severe strain. Hospitals and clinics are facing acute shortages of essential medications, including insulin, dialysis supplies, and cancer treatments. Medical staff are working tirelessly under difficult conditions and require urgent support to continue saving lives.

"The humanitarian conditions in As-Sweida and displacement sites in Dar'a and Rural Damascus are dire. Civilians have borne the brunt of the violence and urgently need support," Mr Abdelmoula said. "Local civil society organizations are playing a vital role in supporting displaced and host communities. Their efforts deserve recognition and sustained resources to expand their reach and impact", he added.

Meanwhile, local markets are experiencing severe shortages, and prices for basic goods are soaring. Families are waiting in long lines for fuel and essential commodities. Humanitarian assistance alone cannot resolve these challenges. Restoring safe and reliable flows of commercial goods is critical to stabilizing the situation and preventing further deterioration.

In coordination with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, the United Nations and humanitarian partners have dispatched 12 aid convoys to date, delivering a broad range of life-saving assistance. Over 300,000 people are currently being reached each month with some form of humanitarian aid.

Despite these efforts, the response remains constrained by limited funding. The United Nations calls on donors to stand in solidarity with the people of As-Sweida and across Syria by urgently scaling up support to meet the most pressing needs.

The United Nations remains committed to working with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the sustained, principled delivery of humanitarian assistance to all communities in need.

21 August 2025